2004 Fiat Idea vs. 2007 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2007 Lotus Exige is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Fiat Idea. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Fiat Idea would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Exige (220 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea.
Because 2007 Lotus Exige is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Idea, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Lotus Exige (225 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 2007 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Idea | Exige |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1160 mm |
